Wayne Gretzky Set to Perform Iconic Pre-Game Ritual at New $500 Million Facility

After being a part of the NHL Winter Classic 2023, Wayne Gretzky will soon perform an important ceremony in California. This ritual will be held before the beginning of a much-awaited game of the American Hockey League. The huge facility in a desert will have the capacity to host more than 5,000 fans. ‘The Great One’ also gave his views on this exciting event. 

The hockey champion will perform this ritual before the game of Coachella Valley Firebirds against the San Diego Gulls. This ceremony will take place on 22nd January at 3 pm at the new Acrisure Arena. The organizers of the event also gave their views about this exciting partnership with Gretzky. 

The exciting ritual and interesting views on this ritual performed by Wayne Gretzky 

Before the thrilling game on 22nd January, Gretzky will perform the ceremony of dropping the puck. Dropping the puck symbolizes the end of pre-game celebrations, where the puck is released between the sticks of two opposing players from different teams. After this, the actual face-off for possessing the puck between both teams begins. 

Steve Fraser, a higher official of the Acrisure Arena, also gave his honest opinion on Wayne Gretzky. “We are thrilled to partner with the City of Rancho Mirage to bring the Great One, Wayne Gretzky, to the brand new Acrisure Arena to “Drop the Puck,” Steve spoke. Fraser also implied that it was a perfect pairing of one of the greatest hockey players and one of the biggest hockey arenas. 

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Later, ‘The Great One spoke about how he was looking forward to doing this ritual. “To see hockey grow in Southern California and to have an AHL team in the desert is exciting’, he expressed. 

Also, Gretzky gave his honest perspective about being a part of the NHL’s Winter Classic 2023. The hockey legend also made a startling remark at this event, which left fans divided. 

Wayne Gretzky’s honest admissions on NHL Winter Classic 2023 and an unexpected comment 

In an Instagram story, Gretzky posted a picture with the Canadian hockey professional Rick Tocchet who was also at the event. ‘The Great One’ wrote the caption, “Great time at the Winter Classic, thank you Boston!” Needless to say, Gretzky enjoyed this match between the Boston Bruins and the Pittsburgh Penguins. 

Later, Gretzky also made an unexpected comment during an interesting debate. The debate was about which player should be a part of Mount Rushmore. When questioned if Sidney Crosby deserved to be a part of Mount Rushmore, Gretzky stated, “Native Americans should be on there.” While various fans agreed with his statement, other fans gave divergent opinions on whether other players like Bobby Orr deserved to be in the list. 

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The news that Gretzky will drop the puck has amped up the fans’ excitement for the game on January 22nd, 2023. What do you think about Gretzky being given the honor to drop the puck and his startling comment? Share your opinions in the comments section.